Arsenal's young midfielder Ethan Nwaneri is set to be rewarded with a new shirt number following his breakthrough season with the Gunners, according to recent reports.

The 18-year-old Nigerian-eligible talent, who currently wears the No.53 shirt, will inherit the No.22 jersey that will be vacated by goalkeeper David Raya. This change represents a significant step in Nwaneri's career progression at the North London club.

Raya, who joined Arsenal initially on loan from Brentford before making the move permanent last year, is reportedly set to take the traditional No.1 shirt, reflecting his status as the club's first-choice goalkeeper.

The number reshuffling is seen as a clear indication of Nwaneri's rising status within the team. The No.22 shirt is typically associated with established first-team players, signifying his transition from academy prospect to key squad member.

Nwaneri was permanently promoted to Arsenal's first-team setup alongside fellow academy graduate Myles Lewis-Skelly prior to the 2024-25 campaign. The young midfielder has since justified this promotion with impressive performances, contributing nine goals and two assists across all competitions this season.

This development comes as Arsenal continues to nurture young talent through their academy system, with Nwaneri emerging as one of the most promising prospects to break through in recent years.

The midfielder's new shirt number is expected to be officially confirmed before the start of the next season, as Arsenal prepares for another campaign challenging for domestic and European honours.